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US 2006/0041259 A1Published application
Spine stabilization system
AssigneeGlobus Medical, Inc.
InventorsDavid Paul, Andrew Lee
Life of this patent
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Abstract
The invention generally concerns a spine stabilization system having one or more flexible elements having an opening or slit. The flexible element may be integrally formed in a rod having ends capable of receiving fasteners. The flexible element may limit rotation, flexion-extension, or lateral bending of the spine. The slit or opening may form helical pattern on the rod, and more than one slit or opening may be provided. The flexible element may be conformable to the natural spinal movement.
Claims39
A flexible spine stabilization system comprising:
- a rod having a substantially solid body extending from a first end portion to a second end portion, the rod made from a first material;
- a first flexible element formed in the body comprising at least a first slit formed therein, wherein said first flexible element is disposed between the first and second end portions, wherein the first flexible element is integrally formed between said first and second end portions,
- wherein a second material is positioned within at least a portion of the slit, the second material being bioabsorbable, and
- wherein the first flexible element has a first flexibility that permits motion of the first end portion relative to the second end portion and the first flexibility varies over time as the second material is absorbed;
- a first fastener connected with the first end portion;
- and
- a second fastener connected with the second end portion;
- wherein the first and second fasteners secure the first rod at least partially between the exterior of a first vertebra and a second vertebra such that the spine stabilization system permits movement of the first vertebra relative to the second vertebra.
5 more elements
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.